Ogunbode: Police Makes U-turn, Declares LASU Graduate’s Case a Murder, Arrests 3 After NANS Protest Threat

By Dansu Peter  In a dramatic reversal, the Lagos State Police Command has now confirmed that the case of missing Lagos State University (L...

By Dansu Peter 

In a dramatic reversal, the Lagos State Police Command has now confirmed that the case of missing Lagos State University (LASU) graduate, Adedamola Ogunbode, is a murder investigation—contrary to its earlier position. This shift comes after intense pressure from the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), which had threatened mass protests over the handling of the case.

Badagry Today initially reported that Adedamola Ogunbode was allegedly murdered by Pastor Whepetoji Sunday. However, the Lagos Police Command had earlier dismissed the claim, stating that it was a case of a missing person.

In a latest development, the police have now made a U-turn, confirming Badagry Today's earlier report and stating that the case is likely a murder.

Three suspects are in custody, while police continue their search for five others linked to the crime. Among the arrested individuals is Whepetoji Sunday, a self-styled prophet accused of receiving N70,000 from Ogunbode’s account. Another suspect, Sheriff Adebayo, allegedly received N300,000, while Omolara Ajisomo was apprehended for allegedly aiding her children, Teniola and Olaoluwa Ajisomo, in fleeing to Cotonou, Benin Republic, after each reportedly received N300,000 from the victim’s account.

The police had initially dismissed Ogunbode’s disappearance as a missing person case, but growing evidence and public outcry have now forced them to classify it as murder. Police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin stated that significant progress had been made in the investigation, with efforts ongoing to locate Ogunbode’s body and ascertain the exact cause of death.

Related News:

• Police Debunk Claims of Ritual Killing of LASU Graduate, Confirm He is Missing
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• LASU PPL Pastor Arrested Over Alleged Ritual Murder of Church Member, Body Parts Buried in Shallow Grave in Church 

To ensure a thorough probe, Lagos Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh has directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to take over the case. He reassured the public of the command’s commitment to justice, vowing that all those responsible would be arrested and prosecuted.

Hundeyin also dismissed concerns of political interference, emphasizing that the investigation would proceed transparently. “There will be no cover-up. Every aspect of this case will be fully examined,” he said.

The police have promised to keep the public informed as new findings emerge, while NANS has vowed to monitor the case closely to ensure justice for Ogunbode.